When I first learned that there was a faceless monster, who had admitted to mercilessly murdering my dearly beloved Uncle Alfred Barnes 47 long years ago, in northeastern Pennsylvania; time stood still. My heart stopped for a moment, but the pain of it all anguishes still. Mr.Richard Keiper was apprehended at last in Boyd, Texas by the Pennsylvania State Police and Texas Rangers. They are to be thanked for his long-awaited arrest. Our long-overdue prayers were finally answered, when this faceless monster was finally discovered and victoriously uncovered.

Alfred Louis Barnes, who was just 40 years young at the time, was a friendly unsuspecting man, who could see the good in others. He was successful, and in the prime of his happy life. He was not only robbed, but was also gunned down like an animal; with no thought and so senselessly.

Dazed, in shock and finding myself forced to relive this nightmare and horrendous family event and sadness all over again, it took me several days to wrap and unwrap my heart, mind and soul around the depth of loss rendered our family. Though it has been a long 47 years, the sting of our festering wound is raw, and our significant loss is still so painful.

I remember my Uncle Alfred, as the beloved youngest of four and my Mother’s little brother whom she loved so dearly. He was fun to be around, loved life and was a loving, giving, committed, hard-working, respectful, caring, honest, handsome and wonderful man. He was loved and esteemed by many. It was evident to me as a child that he loved and served his country, adored his companion Cocker Spaniel dog named Terry, and was committed to his family through and through. I knew without a doubt, he cared for us deeply, and the feeling was mutual. We all loved, looked up to, respected and appreciated him much. I always looked forward to his phone calls, encouraging cards, letters and fun visits.

My memories of my Uncle Alfred are clear, dear and sweet. I will treasure them always. My young heart at the tender age of 12 was forever changed and broken, when he was so horribly, unexpectedly and brutally taken from us 47 years ago. When I think of all those years lost: time spent together, heart to heart conversations, birthdays, holidays, births, deaths, weddings, family photos, events and memories all without him, my sadness cries out! We have all dearly missed his smiling presence through the years. I really wish my children and grandchildren had, had the opportunity to have known him, and to have had him be a vital part of their lives. I feel they’ve missed out on something so very special that can never be recovered this side of Heaven.

After so many years of why, and being left wondering about who could have violated, executed and taken my dear Uncle Alfred from us so coldly, it is hard to get used to the idea that this faceless monster from the past, now has a name and face. Richard Keiper was the last face my uncle ever saw, and is the face and presence of evil. He took too much, how could he…!

Now that Richard Keiper has been arrested and convicted of the murder of my Uncle, I am thankful for the closure and justice, which has been finally served on behalf of my Uncle. Though I weep in knowing the fear and pain my Uncle must have suffered on that dreary dreadful day, 47 years ago. Knowing who did it, does not ease the pain, and certainly will not bring my Uncle back. This is so miserably sad for me, and for those of us who knew and loved him best.

I lost my Uncle Alfred too soon, so unexpectedly and too violently. I will never forget Uncle Alfred! He was and still is such a vital part, of the puzzle of me. He remains in my heart forever. Yes, my memories of him are sweet, and I was truly blessed to have had him in my life at all.

For God will bring every deed into judgment, including every hidden thing, whether it is good or evil. Ecclesiastes 12:14

Most sincerely,

Vivian Edwards

Niece of my beloved uncle, Alfred L Barnes

Note: With anguish, I forgive Richard Keiper for this horrendous act taken against my Uncle Alfred Barnes. Knowing that God in His mercy has forgiven me, so therefore I must also practice forgiveness for others. God desires me to forgive, and to let go. I feel very sad for Richard Keiper’s family, who knew nothing of his actions against my Uncle that day. I can’t imagine how their hearts are breaking and suffering as well, because of his destructive choices. My prayers are with them.

For if you forgive men when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. But if you do not forgive men their sins, your Father will not forgive your sins.Matthew 6: 14 and 15

Viviana May

Hello and welcome!

Sit back, relax, take a sip of your favorite whatever, and enjoy your visit with me as I share from my heart to yours. I would love to connect with you, so be sure to let me hear from you from time to time!

Blessings, and may your days be nothing less than spectacular all the time!

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